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2016 Volkswagen Passat

Volkswagen's 2016-MY Passat arrives with a passel of updates that may remind you of that dependable relative that shows up for the holidays with an attractive makeover.

The Passat, Volkswagen's top fleet seller, enters the 2016-MY with plenty of new safety and connectivity features, sportier styling, and LED lighting that annihilates dark corners around a driveway. The heavy update adds to the existing generation that began when the 2012-MY Passat replaced the B6 Passat sedan and wagon.

The external styling updates may seem subtle — a more muscular hood, added chrome to the grille, and a more angular taillight — but the cumulative effect makes for a sportier vehicle.

The Passat again delivers a smooth ride that's a match for rough patches of roadway, and the vehicle's electro-mechanical steering provides a responsive feel. Volkswagen has even redesigned the wheel with a flat bottom that aids quicker turning.

Photo by Vince Taroc.

The 2016 Passat is powered by a turbocharged 1.8L TSI four-cylinder engine that delivers 170 hp and 184 lb.-ft. of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy comes in at an EPA-rated 38 mpg on the highway and 25 mpg in the city. An optional 3.6L V-6 has been rated at 28 mpg highway and 20 mpg city.

Technology updates make a splashy impression, as the 2016 Passat adds Apple CarPlay and Android auto functionality, a next-generation infotainment system (MIB II) and driver-assistance systems such as forward-collision, blind-spot and land-departure alerts. An automatic post-collision braking system is available.

Fleet drivers will find the first iteration of Apple CarPlay a refreshing and easy-to-use system that simplifies connectivity tasks. Text messages can be easily read aloud when they come in, and dictated messages allow for timely responses while your eyes remain on the road. Apple CarPlay also eases functions such as navigation and music selection for longer trips.

The 2019 Ford Transit Connect is available in either a cargo or passenger configuration and in short- or long-wheelbase models. The 2019 model can be ordered with a new 2.0L I-4 gasoline engine, optional 1.5L turbodiesel, or fleet-only 2.5L I-4.

The bigger frame, powered by a 6.6L Duramax turbo-diesel with 910 lb.-ft. of torque that is mated to a 10-speed Allison transmission delivers a greater towing capacity than its predecessor models, well in excess of 30,000 pounds.

The fifth-generation 2019 Forester is better by nearly every metric. It is quieter, larger, and safer. It has increased horsepower, greater fuel efficiency, and is more technologically advanced than the fourth-generation model it replaced.

Jeep's fourth-generation 2018 Wrangler JL arrives as a significant update to its Wrangler JK that upgrades the off-road icon into a more connected, fuel efficient, and more configurable model that should be a high-priority target for rental fleets in Utah, Colorado, and other areas located near national parks.

Fleet managers looking for a safety-oriented compact SUV should consider Hyundai's 2019 Santa Fe, which enters its fourth generation with an array of driver-assisting and safety features as standard equipment even on the base model.

Toyota is offering several upgrades to its flagship 2019 Avalon sedan, including boosted power, a revamped infotainment system, and suspension upgrades that enhance this nearly full-size sedan for executives who drive it as a perk vehicle.

The AT3 Discoverer 4S tires offered very capable traction without a significant on-road fuel-economy penalty. They would make a good choice for fleets that need a tire for vehicles that do most of their mileage on pavement but need occasional off-road capability.

The Nissan is currently available in front-wheel drive with three variants. It’s powered by a 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with continuous variable valve timing, and boasts 125 horsepower and 115 lb-ft of torque.

The 2018 Kona marks Hyundai’s first foray into the subcompact SUV segment. An affordable entry price, good gas mileage, and agile performance make it a strong competitor in the increasingly competitive market for these crossovers.